Lazarus ‘Laz’ Lake, born Gary Cantrell, has established himself as a formidable figure in the world of ultrarunning. Known for his creative and demanding races, his most notorious contribution is the Barkley Marathons. However, he is also the mastermind behind the rapidly growing phenomenon of Backyard Ultras, which have gained immense popularity across the globe.
Now at the age of 70, Laz Lake no longer participates in races, yet he continues to pursue extreme challenges. Following the historic 2024 Barkley Marathons, he embarked on an ambitious endeavor labeled ‘Lazcon’. This extended trek spans from Delaware to San Francisco, marking a significant walking journey across the eastern to western United States.
Lake’s ambitious walk concluded temporarily at Foyil, Oklahoma, after he paid homage to his parents’ graves. The next 350 miles of his journey remain unfinished, with plans to resume after this year’s Barkley Marathon event. Though he has gradually stepped back from his previous level of control over the “race that eats its young,” he remained influential at the Frozen Head State Park last year when Jasmin Paris became the first female finisher.
Laz Lake’s Backstory
Laz Lake began his journey in the realm of ultrarunning during the early 1980s after a successful career as a basketball coach and accountant. Now residing with his wife Sandra on a farm in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, he may have stepped away from competitive running, yet he still walks between five to ten miles daily. Notably, in 2018, Lake traversed 3,300 miles across the United States, a feat he aims to replicate in 2024.
Lake’s legacy extends beyond the Barkley Marathons. His role as a race director encompasses several challenging events, including Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra, the Barkley Fall Classic, Strolling Jim 40, Vol State 500K, and the Heart of the South Mystery Run. Each of these races presents unique challenges and unconventional entry requirements, solidifying Lake’s reputation for designing tough competitions. The growing popularity of these events speaks to the significant impact he has had on the ultrarunning community.
The Philosophy Behind His Races
Lake’s keen insight into race design was highlighted in a 2019 interview, where he explained the delicate balance between crafting an impossible race and one that is easily achievable. He stated, “It’s easy to design an impossible race, and it’s easy to make a race that everyone can finish. It’s really hard to find that point where impossibility is just so close.” This philosophy illustrates his dedication to challenging runners while providing them with an opportunity to gauge their limits.
Despite the challenging nature of his races, Lake emphasizes a positive perspective on the finishing rate. He believes that the essence of his role as a race director is to facilitate an environment where runners can discover their potential, allowing them to walk away feeling accomplished, regardless of their race outcomes. “Your job as a race director is to provide a platform for runners to find greatness in themselves,” he asserts.
Personal Insights Into Laz Lake
Photographer David Miller had the opportunity to meet Lake while photographing the Barkley Marathons in 2023. He reflected on Lake’s character, noting his intelligence and passion for the sport. According to Miller, “He really loves pushing people to their limit… He’s created a family there, he welcomes everyone, but at the same time, you just don’t want to break the rules or cross him.” This blend of camaraderie and firmness has fostered a unique community among ultrarunners, drawn together by their shared experiences and challenges.
In summary, Lazarus ‘Laz’ Lake stands as a pivotal figure in ultrarunning, leaving an indelible mark on the sport through his innovative race creations and personal philosophy. As he continues to walk across America and inspire countless athletes, his legacy is only expected to grow, further weaving his story into the fabric of ultrarunning history.
